Abstract: A headrest and headrest positioning system reduces whiplash injuries from rear impacts by properly positioning the headrest behind the occupant's head either continuously, or just prior to and in anticipation of, the vehicle impact and then properly supports both the head and neck. Sensors determine the location of the occupant's head and motors move the headrest both up and down and forward and back as needed. In one implementation, the headrest is continuously adjusted to maintain a proper orientation of the headrest to the rear of the occupant's head. In another implementation, an anticipatory crash, is used to predict that a rear impact is about to occur, in which event, the headrest is moved proximate to the occupant. A pre-inflated airbag within the headrest automatically distributes the pressure to evenly support both the head and neck.